Cognition during active methamphetamine use versus remission

J Clin Exp Neuropsychol. 2021 Aug;43(6):599-610. doi: 10.1080/13803395.2021.1976734. Epub 2021 Oct 6.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate whether cognitive performance in adults with active methamphetamine use (MA-ACT) differs from cognitive performance in adults in remission from MA use disorder (MA-REM) and adults without a history of substance use disorder (CTLs).

Method: MA-ACT (n = 36), MA-REM (n = 48), and CTLs (n = 62) completed the Neuropsychological Assessment Battery (NAB).

Results: The MA-ACT group did not perform significantly worse than CTLs on any NAB Index. The MA-REM group performed significantly (p < 0.050) worse than CTLs on the NAB Memory Index. The MA-ACT group performed significantly better than CTLs and the MA-REM group on the Executive Functions Index.

Conclusions: Some cognitive deficits are apparent during remission from MA use, but not during active use; this may result in clinical challenges for adults attempting to maintain recovery and continue with treatment.

Keywords: Cognition; addiction; dependence; neuropsychological; stimulant; substance use disorder.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Amphetamine-Related Disorders* / complications
  • Cognition
  • Executive Function
  • Humans
  • Methamphetamine* / adverse effects
  • Neuropsychological Tests

Substances

  • Methamphetamine